The Mitchell Lab (Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) is seeking one highly qualified student to conduct independent research on plant disease ecology. The research will be part of our project examining the effects of natural enemies, plant community composition, and resource supply on colonization and invasion of plant communities. The REU student will work as part of a team including three Ph.D. students and will conduct research to examine whether host species identity, host community composition, and resource supply influence virus co- infection (simultaneous infection by multiple pathogen species). The student will receive training in fundamental concepts and theories of the ecology of infectious disease. These concepts and theories are largely general across systems, spanning human and wildlife hosts as well as plants. Additionally, the REU student will further broaden their research experience by contributing to the broader research project occurring at the site. The ideal student will be preparing to enter a graduate (M.S. or Ph.D.) program in Ecology or a related field in Biology or Environmental Sciences.
The position is for 12.5 weeks and may begin as early as Monday 13 May 2013, and end as late as Friday 16 August 2013 (14 weeks total). The student will be responsible for reporting the stipend as taxable income. The student must arrange his/her own housing. REU is a program funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). REU students must be enrolled in a degree program leading to a baccalaureate degree (i.e. to be eligible, you must not be graduating until at least Fall 2013). Additionally, REU students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The program particularly encourages applications from women, underrepresented minority groups, and persons with disabilities. To apply, please email Rob Heckman [email protected]: (A) a one page cover letter that explains why you are interested in the position, and summarizes any relevant experience, (B) a resume including your institution, major, expected graduation date, relevant courses, GPA, citizenship or permanent resident status, and work / research experience (if any), (C) the name and contact information for two people who can provide letters of reference. Letters will be requested only for semi-finalists, and official transcripts will be requested from finalists. Applications will be reviewed until a highly qualified student is hired. To guarantee full consideration, apply by 31 March 2013. -------------- Fletcher Halliday Graduate Student UNC Chapel Hill - Biology Department www.BioDV.com
